The Port Times Record - October 20, 2022

Photos by Raymond Janis

Anker, Kornreich host educational forum on substance misuse

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Despite the pouring rain outside, dozens of locals gathered at Mount Sinai High School on Thursday, Oct. 13, for an educational forum on substance misuse prevention.

Hosted by Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker (D-Mount Sinai), who chairs the county’s addiction prevention and support advisory panel, the event brought together various entities. In her presentation, Anker emphasized the outsized rate of drug-related fatalities in the area.

“Right now, the town of Brookhaven has the highest number of opioid deaths in Suffolk County — one of the highest in the state — and we have to do more,” she said. The legislator added, referring to the county government, “We’re trying, but it’s really up to the community. It’s up to the parents, kids and peers to do more and get us in a better place.”

Anker highlighted the need for drug addiction and prevention workshops, stating that these provide an outlet for community members to better prepare themselves in case of an emergency. She also noted that drug education has evolved in recent years, addressing victims’ needs rather than creating stigma.

The county’s DASH [diagnostic, assessment and stabilization hub] program was cited by her as a model for responsible drug intervention.

“When people overdose, they go to an emergency [room] at Stony Brook or Mather or St. Charles or one of the hospitals here in Suffolk County, but what do you do after?”

Anker said. “Before, they would just go home or go somewhere. There would be no support, no direction. Now there is.” She added, “New York State is taking that example and making

more throughout the state.”

Also present at this community forum was Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook), chair of the town’s Drug Prevention Coalition. He considered the coalition a valuable public resource for Brookhaven residents.

“That’s a model of getting the school districts involved, of all kinds of community organizations from a grassroots level, so that we can really get down to that family level,” he said. For Kornreich, the goal of the coalition is to “be accessible and get people connected to the services they need and bring prevention programs to schools ... so that we can break that cycle of use and abuse before it starts.”

Another essential component of the forum was its presentations on drug awareness. Among the speakers throughout the night was Mark Murray, chief of the narcotics bureau for the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.

Murray delivered a detailed presentation on the dangers of fentanyl, which he said has become increasingly problematic for county communities.

“Since 2016 here in Suffolk, fentanyl has viciously made its mark,” he said. “We have easily averaged over 300 fatal overdoses a year here in Suffolk, due primarily to the presence of fentanyl.”

Murray characterized fentanyl as a highly potent substance, requiring just “a grain or two” to deliver a lethal dose. According to the narcotics chief, fentanyl is found in nearly every drug on the black market.

“Fentanyl is popular, it’s addictive — and there’s no such thing as a scrupulous drug dealer,” he said.

Given the frequency of fentanyl-related overdoses in Suffolk, Murray stressed the importance of the Good Samaritan Law. This New York State statute protects victims and witnesses of overdose events.

“It covers a witness or a victim of any medical episode — but more specifically a drug or alcohol overdose — who decides to call 911 either for themselves or that third person,” he said. “It’s not a trick. It’s statutory. It was codified by the state because they wanted to encourage people to realize the importance of the situation and to pick up the phone, call and get help.”

Following the presentations from Murray and other speakers, attendees were given training instructions in naloxone.

To learn more about the addiction resources, including emergency hotline numbers, visit the Long Island Addiction Resource Center website: longislandaddictionresourcecenter.org.

Above: Mark Murray, chief of the narcotics bureau for the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.

Photo by Raymond Janis

Trustee Sheprow reveals findings of communications audit

BY AIDAN JOHNSON DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

The Village of Port Jefferson Board of Trustees held its biweekly business meeting Monday, Oct. 17, to address current affairs involving the village.

Trustee Lauren Sheprow, whose professional background is in public relations — including posts at Stony Brook University and Mather Hospital — presented some of her months-long communications audit findings.

The trustee said the audit identifies what is working within the communications system and what needs improvement. It further assesses how the village government should deploy resources and whether it could implement operational efficiencies for more effective communications.

Sheprow had multiple interviews with elected officials and appointed staff to develop a deeper understanding of communications within the village government. She also participated in some of the communications activities in real time, which furthered her knowledge in the process.

Integrated communications involve ensuring that an organization’s message is aligned across all communication channels. This can maintain consistency across channels and continuity of messages within the organization.

Sheprow felt that the village used specific tools to communicate better with other asset management, which tied into the importance of an integrated communication network.

She also shared the importance of informing the right people about projects, such as the East Beach bluff, and providing them with enough context of what is happening.

Sheprow also addressed the need for a chain of command for crisis communication. According to her, it is critical to be clear who is in charge of different tasks, such as writing a press statement, approving it and distributing it.

Since some residents still do not use the internet, the trustee feels that relying upon digital technology is ill-advised, as it is an unreliable form of communication for notifying residents about natural disasters, snowstorms and hurricanes, among others.

Furthermore, Sheprow felt department heads needed to be more involved in conversations and projects related to their respective departments. While many decisions are often made and activities that involve the different departments continue, the overseers are not always adequately consulted on the best way to get something done or when something needs to be done.

Sheprow said she wished to communicate to the Port Jefferson residents the effectiveness of attending trustee meetings. Everyone is

welcome and invited, and it is imperative that they take an active role in their village government when possible.

Effective communications, Sheprow contended, are achieved through the village website, emails, social media channels, public kiosks, street banners and closed-circuit television. Still, she suggested that more in the system could be used to communicate better with employees.

Sheprow also discussed concerns about the resident portal. Residents have said they have not received a great response when using it, despite following the instructions to record their problems and issues.

The trustee also advanced an idea of an internal newsletter that could go out twice a month following board meetings. She also examined the prospect of creating a shared calendar that listed important events and happenings within the village.

Sheprow touched upon the cascading communication system, known as “create once, publish everywhere.” It helps communicators maximize the approach and success of the communication landing, and can help to figure out where the message needs to go and who needs to see it.

She talked about establishing a clear prioritization process of content. The trustee wants to prioritize events that justify a higher level of communication resources and deploy them when needed. She suggested creating a press release template for the events that are found to be more newsworthy.

A new content management system that focuses specifically on being more responsive to communication from the municipal side is being considered for the village website. It is hoped to find one that will be easy for users to navigate to complete tasks such as requesting documents.

Sheprow thinks it would be a welcome approach to contract with an experienced freelance reporter and photographer to create future content and post event news reports. She also discussed bringing in an editorial director who could oversee all content creation.

The trustee also wants to consider investing in a digital asset management tool for storing graphic assets, including proofs and historical images, logos and writing materials. It would be managed by a photographer, and metadata is entered along with each image.

Finally, Sheprow suggested looking into an employee app resource for quick access to information. Overall, Sheprow provided a thorough dive into communications within village government, and offered useful solutions to issues that need to be corrected.

Following her presentation, Sheprow was greeted to a round of applause from her fellow trustees. The village board will reconvene Monday, Nov. 7, at 5 p.m.

RECEIVE A COMMEMORATIVE COIN AND OFFICIAL CERTIFICATE

Retire Your American Flag in The Most Respectful, Dignified and Safest Way Possible with Branch.

American Flags should be retired if they are –

Torn and tattered beyond repair

Sun-bleached or extremely faded

flag will be retired in the most patriotic and respectful way possible; by being placed and cremated with a veteran who has bravely served our great nation.

To schedule your flag donation, please visit our website at BranchFH.com/Flag or scan the QR Code with your smartphone camera.

Comsewogue High School celebrates Homecoming 2022

BY DENIZ YILDIRIM DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Last weekend, Comsewogue celebrated Homecoming, and students participated in Spirit Week all week to show their school spirit.

Spirit week kicked off Tuesday after schools were closed Monday for Columbus Day. Tuesday was “Character Day,” Wednesday was “Decades Day,” followed by “America Day” on Thursday, and “Class Color Day” on Friday. In addition, students competed in a hallway decorating contest and a trivia contest.

On Friday, students followed a shortened bell schedule so the entire school could participate in this year’s pep rally. At noon, students made their way from the classrooms to the bleachers, then players of all sports teams were announced and cheered. Between the name announcements, students and teachers participated in fun games such as a relay race, a mummy wrap, and a timeless favorite, musical chairs.

Then Saturday was the highly anticipated Homecoming Game. Easily conveyed by unique grade-level floats, the theme for this year was movies. Freshmen crafted a special “Lego Movie” themed float. Sophomores were inspired by the movie “Up.” Juniors chose the film “Toy Story.” Seniors created an “Alice in Wonderland” float.

The festivities started with a Costume Fun Run at 10 a.m. Participants dressed up as their favorite characters and ran around the high school track for as long as they chose. By noon, the Homecoming Parade was in full swing.

Launched from JFK Middle School,

parade marchers included the PJSTA Teachers Union; the Comsewogue School District Board of Education; Jennifer Quinn, superintendent of schools; and Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook).

The Terryville Fire Department also joined the procession, making its way down Jayne Blvd, heading for the high school, and throwing candy to spectators along the way.

Once the procession reached the high school, all enjoyed a homecoming carnival. Children had their faces painted by teachers, spent some time in a bouncy house, or tried to ‘sink’ an educator in the dunk tank. This was the second “normal” Homecoming since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted in-person social gatherings. And it was even bigger than last year’s event.

Teachers, administrators, and parents volunteered much of their time to make this event possible. “We believe Homecoming is really enjoyed by everyone,” said principal Mike Mosca, “It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it.”

Part of the Comsewogue district’s mission is to promote inclusivity. For this reason, the Special Education Parent Teacher Association had organized a designated “Quiet Area” for students with sensory sensitivities.

At 4 p.m., just before kickoff, Hall of Fame inductees were recognized on the field. Earlier that day, these stars enjoyed a luncheon inside the school, where plaques were unveiled.

Quinn was pleased with the celebration: “It’s always fun whenever families and teachers get together like this,” she said.

— Photos courtesy CSD

Stony Brook’s Hercules gets renewed vigor

BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

A Long Island landmark is looking more vibrant.

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization debuted the restored Hercules figurehead at a press conference on Oct. 14. Recently, philanthropists Harlan and Olivia Fischer, of Head of the Harbor, noticed the figurehead needed restoration and decided to sponsor its renovation.

WMHO board members thanked the Fischers and the work crew from ART of NYC & Long Island who restored the piece located in the Hercules Pavilion overlooking Stony Brook Harbor, across from the Village Center. The Holbrook-based company was retained for the restoration, which included cleaning, sanding and replastering before repairing, painting and varnishing the landmark.

Richard Rugen, WMHO chairman, said, “It’s a work in progress, but [the Fischers] are actually going to take care of the rest of the pavilion as well.”

Additional work will be done on the weather-beaten pavilion in the near future, including roof work and painting.

Harlan Fischer, president of Branch Financial Services, moved his offices from Smithtown to Setauket in 2020. Every day he passes through the village on his way to work and back, he said, and appreciates how lovely Stony Brook village is. He asked WMHO president Gloria Rocchio if she thought the renovation would be a worthwhile project, and she agreed.

“When we make contributions to places, we like to see the results of it,” he said. The Fischers are also donors to The Jazz Loft and sponsor a monthly concert series at the music venue and museum.

The full-color Hercules carving, located in Stony Brook since 1951, features the head and shoulders of the Greek demigod — known for his exceptional strength — draped in a lion’s skin. The bust was once the USS Ohio’s figurehead. The ship was the first to be launched from the Brooklyn Navy Yard in 1820.

Rugen said the figurehead was saved when the ship was decommissioned, destroyed and sunk in Greenport Harbor in 1884. It was bought by the Aldrich family of Aquebogue for $10 at the time, and from the late 1800s until the early 1950s it sat at the Canoe Place Inn in Hampton Bays after the owner, Miles Carpenter, purchased it for $15. Ward Melville bought it from the inn to be placed in Stony Brook.

Brenda Sinclair Berntson, president of Hampton Bays Historical Society, said when Hercules was located at the inn, it was popular for young women to kiss his forehead, believing that the person would be married within the year.

She said the figurehead wasn’t in the best condition, rotting and termite-ridden when it was brought to Stony Brook.

“We’re very glad that Ward Melville had the foresight and saved it,” she said.

Danielle Parisi, business development manager of ART of NYC & Long Island, said as someone who grew up and still lives in Stony Brook, it was an honor to work on the project. Parisi’s co-worker, art restorer Jessie Kefalas, said in walking by the figurehead in the past it was obvious something needed to be done. There was significant damage including the rotting of the chest of Hercules, which is constructed of plaster and wood.

Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook) was also in attendance and commented on the efforts.

“We’ve seen projects like this before, and so often it’s because of the community spirit of ordinary residents who love where they live or business people who reinvest in their community,” he said.

State Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) called WMHO “one of the custodians of our heritage.”

He added that places such as the pavilion are in danger due to rising sea levels brought on by climate change, and the spot around the structure has experienced flooding after significant rain events. In the future, he said, the Hercules Pavilion could possibly be raised to protect it further, and when such a plan comes to fruition he pledged a $125,000 matching state grant to help with the costs.

PEOPLE of the YEAR

Each year, with our readers’ help, we honor the people who have contributed in the communities we serve.

The honorees are profiled in a special edition at the end of the year.

Nominate your choice(s) by emailing desk@tbrnewsmedia.com

Please include your name and contact information, the name and contact information of the individual you’re nominating and why he or she deserves to be a Person of the Year.

NOVEMBER 16, 2022

Elected officials, Ward Melville Heritage Organization board members and philanthropists Harlan and Olivia Fischer announced the restoration of Stony Brook’s Hercules. Photo from WMHO

LEGALS

SUPREMECOURTOF

THESTATEOFNEWYORK

COUNTYOFSUFFOLK

v. Plaintiff, WELLSFARGOBANK,N.A.,

HELENM.KLOPFER,REGINAM.KLOPFER,ETAL,

Defendant.

NOTICEOFSALE

INFORECLOSURE

PLEASETAKENOTICETHAT

CountyonFebruary26, CountyClerkofSuffolk enteredintheOfficeofthe ofForeclosureandSale InpursuanceofaJudgment

2019,I,AnthonyP.Moncayo,Esq.,Esq.theReferee

NewYork,at11:30AMthe CountyofSuffolk,Stateof Farmingville,NY11738, Hall,1IndependenceHill, 3,2022atBrookhavenTown publicauctiononNovember willsellinoneparcelat namedinsaidJudgment,

premisesdescribedasfollows:

3MonticelloDr

Shoreham,NY11786

SBL#0200-125.00-04.00029.000

ALLTHATTRACTORPARCELOFLANDsituateinthe

York. ofSuffolk,StateofNew TownofBrookhaven,County

Thepremisesaresold

plusinterestandcosts. amountof$657,810.38 No.611572/2015inthe thefiledjudgment,Index subjecttotheprovisionsof

Theaforementionedauction

willbeconductedinaccordancewiththeCourtSystem’sCOVID-19mitigation

socialdistancing,wearing personsmustcomplywith protocolsandassuchall

masksandscreeningpracticesineffectatthetimeof

thisforeclosuresale.

500Bausch&LombPlace Plaintiff’sAttorney WoodsOviattGilmanLLP RichardS.Mullen

Tel.:855-227-5072 Rochester,NY14604

1055009/294xptr

LLC, NATIONSTARMORTGAGE

V.

JAMESFINNEGAN,ETAL.

NOTICEOFSALE

NOTICEISHEREBYGIVEN

pursuanttoaFinalJudgmentofForeclosuredated

August30,2018,andenteredintheOfficeofthe

ClerkoftheCountyof

Suffolk,whereinNATIONSTARMORTGAGELLCisthe

PlaintiffandJAMESFINNEGAN,ETAL.arethe

Defendant(s).I,theundersignedRefereewillsellat

JEFFERSONSTATION,NY 196MINROLSTREET,PORT 3:00PM,premisesknownas onNovember1,2022at FARMINGVILLE,NY11738, 1INDEPENDENCEHILL, BROOKHAVENTOWNHALL, publicauctionatthe

11776:District0200,Section226.00,Block04.00,

Lot070.00:

LAND,WITHTHE PIECEORPARCELOF ALLTHATCERTAINPLOT,

BUILDINGSANDIMPROVEMENTSTHEREON

OFNEWYORK OFSUFFOLKANDSTATE OFBROOKHAVEN,COUNTY ANDBEINGINTHETOWN ERECTED,SITUATE,LYING

Premiseswillbesold

subjecttoprovisionsoffiled

JudgmentIndex#

601528/2015.KevinFitzgerald,Esq.-Referee.

Schneid,Crane&Partners, Robertson,Anschutz,

PLLC900MerchantsConcourse,Suite310,Westbury,

guidelinesincluding,but accordancewithCovid-19 saleswillbeconductedin forPlaintiff. Allforeclosure NewYork11590,Attorneys

notlimitedto,socialdistancingandmaskwearing.

*LOCATIONOFSALESUBJECTTOCHANGEDAYOF

INACCORDANCEWITH

COURT/CLERKDIRECTIVES

1072109/294xptr

NOTICEOFSALE

COUNTYOFSUFFOLK SUPREMECOURT-

To Place A Legal Notice

Email: legals@tbrnewsmedia.com

STATEOFNEWYORKSUPREMECOURTOFTHE

COUNTYOFSUFFOLK

USBANKNATIONALASSOCIATION,ASTRUSTEEFOR

THESTRUCTUREDASSET

MORTGAGEPASS-THROUGH

ASHRAF,etal.Defendant(s) SALMAASHRAF,KASHIF AGAINST 2006-BC4,Plaintiff, CERTIFICATES,SERIES

Pursuanttoajudgmentof

2016. enteredonNovember4, foreclosureandsaleduly

I,theundersignedReferee,willsellatpublic

NY11763. as2BucksHillSt,Medford, 10:00AMpremisesknown onOctober28,2022at Hill,Farmingville,NY11738 TownHall,1Independence auctionattheBrookhaven

RulesforSuffolkCountyand withtheForeclosureAuction conductedincompliance foreclosureauctionshallbe Pleasetakenoticethatthis

theCOVID19HealthEmergencyRules,including

socialdistancing. properuseofmasksand

Allthatcertainplotpiece

Lot015.000. 608.00,Block01.00and York.District0200Section SuffolkandStateofNew ofBrookhaven,Countyof lyingandbeingintheTown thereonerected,situate, buildingsandimprovements orparcelofland,withthe

Approximateamountof

willbesoldsubjectto interestandcosts.Premises judgment$927,178.00plus

provisionsoffiledJudgment.Index#013930/2009.

Referee, ChristopherHahn,Esq.,

AldridgePite,LLP-AttorneysforPlaintiff-40

Melville,NY11747 MarcusDrive,Suite200,

1075609/294xptr

PORTJEFFERSON

FREELIBRARY

TRUSTEEPOSITION

TheLibraryTrusteeshave

statementofinterest,anda includearesume,awritten completedapplicationmust theCirculationDesk.A Applicationsareavailableat personsareinvitedtoapply. AnnualMeeting.Interested duringtheJanuary2023 befilledbyanelection Twonewfiveyeartermswill Boardareduetoexpire. announcedtwoseatsonthe

least25membersofthe

PortJeffersonFreeLibrary

14,2022. p.m.onMonday,November mustbereceivedby9:00 Association.Allapplications

Votingwillbebypaper

p.m. Absenteeballotswill 2023from10:00a.m.-9:00 on Wednesday,January11, ballotattheAnnualMeeting

beavailableattheCirculationDeskfromDecember

10,2023. 12,2022throughJanuary

Tobeeligibleforconsiderationasacandidateorto

PortJeffersonFreeLibrary yearsold,amemberofthe personmustbeatleast18 voteintheelection,a

standing. havealibrarycardingood FreeSchoolDistrict#6,and mustbearesidentofUnion Association;thatis,he/she

PLEASEADDRESS

ALLCORRESPONDENCE

TO:

ELECTIONCOMMITTEE

PORTJEFFERSON

FREELIBRARY

PORTJEFFERSON, 100THOMPSONSTREET

NY11777

10799010/63xptr

NOTICEOFSALE

COUNTYOFSUFFOLK SUPREMECOURT

U.S.BankNationalAssociation,notinitsindividual

trusteefortheRMACTrust, capacitybutsolelyas

Defendant(s) MatthewShea;etal., AGAINST Series2016-CTT,Plaintiff

PursuanttoaJudgmentof

BrookhavenTownHall,1 atpublicauctionatthe undersignedRefereewillsell enteredMay22,2019I,the ForeclosureandSaleduly

SECURITIESCORPORATION Lot014.000.Approximate Section168.00Block08.00 NewYork,District0200 CountyofSuffolk,Stateof theTownofBrookhaven, situate,lyingandbeingin improvementserected, withthebuildingsand plotpieceorparcelofland, NY11764.Allthatcertain RadioAvenue,MillerPlace, premisesknownas198

JudicialDistrict. establishedbytheTenth ofForeclosedProperty ConcerningPublicAuctions totheCOVID-19Policies willbeconductedpursuant 617544/2017.Theauction filedJudgmentIndex# soldsubjecttoprovisionsof andcosts.Premiseswillbe $252,156.27plusinterest amountofjudgment

Referee JamesMcElhone,Esq.,

Attorney(s)forthePlaintiff LLC Shapiro,DiCaro&Barak, LOGSLegalGroupLLPf/k/a

175MileCrossingBoulevardRochester,NewYork

(877)430-4792 14624

Dated:September20,2022

11004010/134xptr

SALEINFORECLOSURE REFEREE’SNOTICEOF

SUPREMECOURT-COUNTY

OCARROLLA/K/AMICHAEL OCARROLLA/K/AMIKEV. O’CARROLLA/K/AMICHAEL against-MICHAEL MORTGAGE,INC.,PlaintiffTOWELLSFARGOHOME SUCCESSORBYMERGER WELLSFARGOBANK,NA OFSUFFOLK

V.OCARROLL,etalDefendant(s).

PursuanttoaJudgmentof

ForeclosureandSaleenteredonJanuary15,2020.

theBrookhavenTownHall,1 willsellatpublicauctionat I,theundersignedReferee

IndependenceHill,Farmingville,NY11738onthe15th

plot,pieceorparcelofreal 10:30AM.Allthatcertain dayofNovember,2022at

property,withtheimprovementstherein

Premisesknownas131 ofNewYork. CountyofSuffolkandState theTownofBrookhaven, apartofacondominiumin contained,situateandbeing

1400OldCountryRoad,

Suite315

DuringtheCOVID-19health Dated:August22,2022 Tel.516/742-1212 Westbury,NY11590

emergency,biddersarerequiredtocomplywithall

butnotlimitedto,wearing thetimeofsaleincluding requirementsineffectat governmentalhealth

facecoveringsandmaintainingsocialdistancing(at

theauction,whiletendering least6-feetapart)during

depositandatanysubsequentclosing.Biddersare

alsorequiredtocomply

withtheForeclosureAuctionRulesandCOVID-19

setforthintheTermsof additiontotheconditions CourtofthisCountyin issuedbytheSupreme HealthEmergencyRules

Sale.

11007010/134xptr

REFEREE’SNOTICE

TRUSTCOMPANY,AS DEUTSCHEBANKNATIONAL OFSUFFOLK SUPREMECOURT-COUNTY OFSALEINFORECLOSURE

TRUSTEEFORTHECERTIFICATEHOLDERSOFMERRILLLYNCHMORTGAGE

INVESTORSTRUST,MORTGAGELOANASSET-BACKED

against-MHAMEDATA,etal 2007-MLN1,PlaintiffCERTIFICATES,SERIES

PursuanttoaJudgmentof Defendant(s).

ForeclosureandSaleenteredonMarch15,2022.I,

BrookhavenTownHall,1 sellatpublicauctionatthe theundersignedRefereewill

IndependenceHill,Farmingville,NY11738onthe17th

beingintheTownof erected,situate,lyingand improvementsthereon withthebuildingsand plot,pieceorparcelofland 10:00AM.Allthatcertain dayofNovember,2022at

Brookhaven,CountyofSuffolkandStateofNewYork.

IndependenceHill,Farmingville,NY11738onNovember14,2022at10:30AM,

writtenpetitionsignedbyat Attorney(s)forPlaintiff Stein,Wiener&RothLLP Referee.

ArtistLakeDrive,Middle

andcosts. $74,647.31plusinterest Approximateamountoflien 07.00,Lot:027.000) (Section:403.00,Block: Island,NY11953-2311.

Premiseswillbesoldsubjecttoprovisionsoffiled

AnnetteEaderesto,Esq., IndexNo.027364/2013. judgmentandtermsofsale.

Premisesknownas12

LynwoodAvenue,Farmingville,NY11738.

andcosts. $500,551.43plusinterest Approximateamountoflien 033.00) 628.00,Block:8.00,Lot: (District:0200,Section:

Premiseswillbesoldsubjecttoprovisionsoffiled

LEGALS con’t on pg. 2 judgmentandtermsofsale.

Rt.

S. Dunaief,

Raymond Janis,

Egan,

Box

Setauket,

Rt. 25A, PO Box

Rt.

Setauket,

PO Box

Rt. 25A, PO Box

Village Life & Times Publishing Corp.

S.

Setauket,

Setauket,

Rt. 25A, PO Box

Setauket,

Niche Category North Shore Market

Must love people and communication. Selling display and online advertising for successful award-winning media group. Experience desirable, but not necessary. Will train.

All inquiries and resumes confidential. email: addirector@tbrnewsmedia.com

LEGALS

LEGALS con’t from pg. 1

DuringtheCOVID-19health Dated:September19,2022 Tel.347/286-7409 NewYork,NY10170 Suite840 420LexingtonAvenue, Attorney(s)forPlaintiff Pierce,LLC McCallaRaymerLeibert Referee. DonnaEngland,Esq., IndexNo.067744/2014.

To Place A Legal Notice

emergency,biddersarerequiredtocomplywithall

butnotlimitedto,wearing thetimeofsaleincluding requirementsineffectat governmentalhealth

facecoveringsandmaintainingsocialdistancing(at

theauction,whiletendering least6-feetapart)during

depositandatanysubsequentclosing.Biddersare

alsorequiredtocomply

withtheForeclosureAuctionRulesandCOVID-19

CourtofthisCountyin issuedbytheSupreme HealthEmergencyRules

10:00a.m.and4:30p.m., maybepickedupbetween phone(631)928-0020,and6

11103010/204xptr

NOTICETOBIDDERS

BelleTerre,onorbefore VillageOffice,1CliffRd. Clerk,attheBelleTerre receivedbytheVillage bids,induplicatewillbe TAKENOTICETHAT,sealed

TuesdayNovember15,2022

NYfor: 55CliffRoad,BelleTerre, 15,2022attheVillageHall, 7p.m.,Tuesday,November openedandreadpubliclyat time.Sealedbidswillbe until4:45p.m.,prevailing

SANDINGOFROADWAYS SNOWPLOWING,SALTAND

InstructionstoBiddersare Specifications,&

MondaythruFriday,beginningonThursdayOctober

theVillageofBelleTerre. oftheBoardofTrusteesfor havemetwiththeapproval 20.Thesespecifications

ROADWAYS” SALTANDSANDINGOF “BIDFORSNOWPLOWING, envelopeclearlymarked besubmittedinasealed Eachproposalmust

TheBoardofTrusteesofthe

VillageofBelleTerrereservestherighttowaiveany

informalitiesinbidsreceived,and/orrejectanyor

allbids.

BOARDOFTRUSTEES BYORDEROFTHE

Sale. setforthintheTermsof additiontotheconditions 11126010/201xptr

CLERKTREASURER JOANNERASO, VILLAGEOFBELLETERRE

Email: legals@tbrnewsmedia.com BelleTerre,NY11777, VillageOffice,1CliffRd. availableattheBelleTerre

Nominate your favorite

to win a from any of the nominated businesses that appear in the Best of the North Shore supplement on Thursday, February 16, 2023.

Accountant

Arborist/Tree Service

Appliance Store

Gallery

Assisted Living/Nursing Home

Attorney/Lawyer

Body Shop

Dealer

Repair Shop

Shop

Specialist

Shop

Lanes

Shop

Supply/Lumber

Company

CHOICE:

Best of the North Shore Ballot

Times Beacon Record News Media readers will be voting for the Best of the Best in over 80 categories on the ballot below. Here’s a chance to get your favorite North Shore businesses, currently operating, the recognition and fame they deserve! Readers are asked to vote by October 19, 2022. Please print your choices and use complete names and TOWN of business. Winners will be announced in the Best of the North Shore publication, inserted in the full run of all six newspapers on Thursday, February 16, 2023.

Carpet Cleaning Service

Cesspool Service

of Commerce

Service

Store

Shop

College/University

Computer Services

Store

School

Shop

Dentist

Dentistry

Dentist

Doctor/Physician/Internist (see Medical

Theater (Playhouse)

Cleaner

Wellness)

Equipment Supply/Rental

Care

Eyewear

(see Medical & Wellness)

Stand

Planner

Festival

Store (carpet/tile)

Florist

Company

Home

Store

Center/Nursery

Course

Store

Center

Store

Store

Cream Stand/Store

Insurance Agency

Jewelry Shop

Kitchen/Bath Design

Landscaper

Library

Liquor/Wine Store

Local Brewery

Medical & Wellness

Acupuncturist

Allergist

Cardiologist

Chiropractor

Cosmetic Surgeon/Practice

Dermatology

Family Doctor

Gastroenterology

Hospital

Internist

Laser Treatment

Massage

OBGYN/Obstetrics & Gynecology

Ophthalmologist

CHOICE:

Orthopedics

Pediatrician

Pharmacy

Physical Therapy

Psychotherapist

Vascular/Vein

Mortgage Company

Movie Theater

Museum

Nursing Service

Nail Salon

Painter (Interior/Exterior)

Paint Store

Party Supply/Event

Pet Boarding/Sitting Service

Pet Grooming

Pet Hospital

Pet Supply Store

Photographer

Piano Entertainer

Pizzeria

Plumber

Pool Store & Supply

Real Estate Agency

Real Estate Agent

Restaurants

Chinese/Japanese

French

Italian

Mexican TOWN Seafood TOWN Thai TOWN

Security Systems Service

Senior Housing Complex

Sign Maker

Spa

Sporting Goods Store

Tanning Salon

Tire Shop

Trash Removal

Veterinarian

Studio

Putin’s folly

A birthday setback for the Russian dictator

BY RICH ACRITELLI DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Vladimir Putin, president of Russia, turned 70 on Oct. 7. He was showered with presents and praise as his soldiers continued to fight an ill-fated and illegal war in Ukraine. The Belarusian leader got him a new tractor. The ruler of Turkmenistan gave him celebratory watermelons. Countries such as Cuba, Turkey, South Africa and Kazakhstan called to wish him a happy birthday.

Yet, as Putin celebrated this milestone year, the septuagenarian dictator received reports that a strategic bridge connecting Russia to Crimea was severely damaged.

This bad news came amid a string of military and strategic blunders, the declining morale of his army and signs of growing internal unrest in Russia. Putin retaliated with missile strikes on Ukrainian civilian targets.

An invasion gone awry

Widely considered a poorly planned military operation, the once-vaunted Russian military has consistently demonstrated tactical weakness in supply, logistics and communications. Putin is deploying his army with massive shortages in weapons and food after his men chaotically abandoned much of their equipment on the battlefield.

Reports suggest that Putin has asked North Korea and China for military hardware to recover its loss of tanks and trucks, which have been destroyed, deserted or captured.

While President Joe Biden (D) has pledged to keep American ground forces out of Ukraine, the United States has continually aided the Ukrainian army. So much American weaponry has been sent to Eastern Europe that America is entering new multibillion-dollar contracts with defense companies to replenish its own national arsenal.

outmaneuvered his Russian counterpart. Zelenskyy has sent online messages to the Russian soldiers, declaring they will be treated well in defeat. Some Russians were even offered to be sent to another nation, where they could save their lives by sitting out the war.

Whereas the Ukrainians have proven themselves capable of deterring the Russians, Putin has employed desperate means. Given his nuclear options, we are now hearing about a possible escalation in a conflict that could get much worse.

Domestic unrest

On the home front, the invasion of Ukraine is unpopular; its effects felt the worst by Putin’s own people. Prominent Western businesses pulled out of Russia months ago, initiated by a global economic boycott designed to cripple the Russian economy.

In the name of wrecking Ukraine, Putin has incited demonstrations against his authority. He has tried to suppress these demonstrations and censor news of the conflict. Still, the stories of many Russian losses on every front are too difficult to hide.

Russian citizens have followed the fighting in Ukraine, the heavy losses incurred by their fellow countrymen and the lack of supplies for their soldiers. In Russia, mass border crossings have taken place. Cars, many carrying young men, have been seen deserting conscription to the Russian army.

It is estimated that almost 200,000 reservists have fled Russia. Putin needs soldiers but has not yet resorted to calling upon his massive citizen population for a full-scale draft.

There is much fighting left and additional sacrifices to be made. The Ukrainians, however, have proven that there is no safe place for the Russian military within their territory.

The American military has mentored the Ukrainian officer corps with special warfare and tactical training. The U.S. Department of Defense has given the Ukrainians sensitive intelligence, helping them locate enemy forces and target them through conventional or guerrilla operations.

call-up of 300,000 reservists has met stark opposition from the Russian populace.

Outfoxed by the Ukrainian president

While Putin plays with his new tractor and enjoys his watermelons, he has little else to celebrate on his birthday. He has waged an unjust war against a sovereign nation. His actions have greatly diminished Russia’s power and legitimacy worldwide.

If any of this forecasts a difficult road ahead, Putin’s 70th year will surely be a bad one for him.

TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Currently, the Russian military is bleeding out. Part-time soldiers want no part in this war. Making matters worse for Putin, his

Putin has even lowered standards for recruitment, allowing the homeless, criminals, wounded soldiers and the middleaged to enlist. The Russian military has become merely a debasement of the oncefierce Red Army, slowly reduced to second and third-rate personnel.

In the face of overwhelming Ukrainian resistance, many of Putin’s citizen-soldiers have surrendered. Meanwhile, Russian conscripts, with little training, have gone into battle with obsolete weapons and limited food against a motivated enemy gaining momentum.

TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

At every turn, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has outwitted and

Rich Acritelli is a history teacher at Rocky Point High School and adjunct professor at Suffolk County Community College. Written in conjunction with members of the high school’s History Honor Society.

TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Turning 70, Vladimir Putin has little to celebrate. Within months, he has tarnished his legacy permanently, encouraged domestic opposition to his authority, and isolated Russia from the rest of the world. Pixabay photo

Port Jefferson Yacht Club, Inc.

The Club wishes to thank all the generous sponsors and donors listed below for making the 13th “Port Jefferson Yacht Club’s Village Cup Regatta” held on September 10th, 2022 a success in the fight against pancreatic cancer which is the third leading cause of cancer related deaths and supporting Mather’s Palliative Medicine.

REGATTA AMBASSADOR

ABLE SEAMAN SPONSORS (cont)

Ralph Macchio Regina Brandow Esq. Sea Tow Port Jefferson

FLEET SPONSORS Stanley and Margaret Loucks Enterprise Asphalt Paving Inc. The Gould & Shenfeld Families Ike, Molly & Steven Elias Foundation Toni Ann Warren Jody & John Arnhold

ADMIRAL SPONSORS

DONORS

Cyber Grants

The Curry Club at Saghar Amazon Intelli-Tec Security Services Anonymous

Carol Makrides

King O’Rourke Auto Group

The Meadow Club Caryle Bethel Northwell Health Chic & Michelle Voorhis Triangle Building Products DOBO Inc Don & Diane Mackenzie Fashion Software Frank Feis & Tanya Drugan

CAPTAIN SPONSORS Gerard Miller Advantage Title Gregory & Chris Gibson Anonymous In memory of Sharon Ann Jannette inforouter.com Jeff Gamble Philip & Kathy Schiavone Ken & Heather Babits Tritec / Shipyard @ Port Jeff Harbor Ken & Liz Detwiler Lori Accetta

NAVIGATOR SPONSORS Mort & Joan Fortgang Alan & Gretchen Johnson Nabil & Susan Kiridly Bachu Bedesi & Nguyen LLC Attorneys Ralph & Elba Vega Bagel Express Robert & Kim Delman BKDowd Law, P.C. Tim Carey Chuck & Peggy Chiaramonte VC Consulting Engineering, P.C. Clickit Inc. Covati & Janhsen CPAs, P.C.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

The Domus Group Cheryl Aronson

The Gitto Group

In Memory of Fred Boerum

PHOTOGRAPHER

In Memory of Judy & David Fichman Stuart Vincent Intuit Investigative Investors Bank is a division of Citizens Bank, N.A. MEDIA SPONSOR

IYRS School of Technology and Trades

The Times Beacon Law Office of Aaron Rubin, P.C. Law Office of Abe George, P.C.

SOCIAL Leon D. DeMatties Construction Thomas Donovan - Bagpiper Meridian Capital Port Jefferson Fire Boat Mitchell Slochower, Therapist, LCSW MSN Air Service

SOUND PRODUCTION Port Jeff Brewing Company Kevin Wood Quality Pest Control / Quality Maintenance Corp Realty Three

RAFFLE SPONSORS Select Investment Properties, Inc Amazing Olive Victor Rampertab & Yvette Chang Bagel Express William C. Hausner Family Betty Ann Marangiello Bliss

HELMSMAN SPONSORS Celtic Quest, Inc. Brick Harbor LLC Dave Hubbard

Ed & Laurina Nielsen Ginny Marie Schooner Ed Miller Greenport Harbor Brewing Company

In Memory of Sebastian J. Lama Helene Flynn Overbay Apartments Janet & Kevin Mularkey Richard Holroyd

Spitzenberger CPA PC

Radler

Harbor Marina

& Karen Aronson

SEAMAN

Memory of Lois Heffernan

Command

&

Bari

Schoeneck

& Alyssa

Dougherty

& Mort Fortgang

& Tim Rachek

Grove Diner

The Wine Bar

Hounds

Dispenza w/Daniel Gale Southerby's

Restaurant

& Kevin Broderick

Wines

Lobster House

Pictured clockwise from top-left: Port Jeff senior Mia O’Connell sets the ball at net; junior Erin Henry drops in the point; Royals celebrate; and Erin Henry with the return in a home game against Mattituck Oct. 17.

Royals break Mattituck’s 12game undefeated streak

BY BILL LANDON DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

The Tuckers of Mattituck came knocking on Port Jeff’s door Monday, Oct. 17, sitting atop the League VIII leaderboard undefeated at 12-0. Looking to make it 13 in a row, the Tuckers met their match as the second-place Royals had ideas of their own.

Port Jeff got out to a slow start, dropping the first set 25-17, but battled back in the second set to edge the Tuckers 25-22. The two juggernauts wowed the crowd, sustaining numerous extended volleys showcasing both teams’ talent.

The Royals took the third set in convincing fashion, winning it 2517. With their backs against the wall, Mattituck traded points with Port Jeff

throughout the fourth set, then called timeout trailing 24-23.

But the Royals closed out solidly, putting the game away 2523 and handing Mattituck its first loss of the season with just two games remaining.

Postseason play will begin Monday, Oct. 24.

— Photos by Bill Landon

Pictured clockwise from top-left: Point, Port Jefferson; Port Jeff eighth grader Ava Reilly from the service line; junior Olivia Sherman sets the play; and Royal Nation.

Port Jefferson School District hosts first of three scheduled bond tours

BY RAYMOND JANIS

EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Port Jefferson School District administrators led a guided tour for more than a dozen community members Tuesday, Oct. 18, showcasing some of the facilities that will be on the ballot this December.

Voters will decide Monday, Dec. 12, upon two landmark ballot initiatives, Propositions 1 and 2, totaling approximately $25 million. If approved, the district will see a significant overhaul of facilities across its three schools:

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School, Port Jefferson Middle School and Edna Louise Spear Elementary.

Proposition 1 projects will target the bathrooms, heating and cooling systems, art, technology and music rooms, among other infrastructure needs throughout the district.

Proposition 2 will feature a crumb rubber artificial turf athletic field at the high school to replace the existing grass field for outdoor athletic teams. [See story, “Capital bonds: PJSD nears historic referendum over school infrastructure,” The Port Times Record, Sept. 29, also TBR News Media website.]

Earl L. Vandermeulen

Administrators began with a detailed presentation on the heating/cooling units proposed for the elementary school, as this site was not part of the tour. Visitors then strolled through the halls and into the rooms under consideration as part of the upcoming referendum.

Several of the touring group asked questions and engaged in detailed exchanges with the district administration.

Jessica Schmettan, superintendent

of schools, led these discussions.

In an interview, she said the district’s goal for these tours is to give voters a window into these facilities, offering them firsthand knowledge of the items on their ballots.

“I think people are seeing some of the areas

that desperately need renovation,” she said.

One of the core issues featured throughout the discussions pertained to the price for each improvement. Addressing these concerns, Schmettan said that how a public school district must finance renovation

projects differs substantially from that of a homeowner renovating his or her home.

“Of course, as always, there’s a question of price, but school districts have to pay at prevailing wages and use the architects’ fees and projections,” which she suggests can drive

up costs. The district superintendent added, “I think it’s hard for people to conceptualize that. They think about their home and what it costs to renovate. I think some of the prices are surprising, but [the architects] definitely saw the need for many of the areas.”

Throughout the tour, which lasted approximately an hour, district residents were given front-row access to these areas. Schmettan discussed the unique experience that this format can offer.

“When you see it, you can’t dispute the smells or the age or the corrosion or the dated materials that are there,” she said. “We’ve done a great job with our academics and our programs despite some of the spaces that these students are being instructed in.”

Referring to the exchanges she and other administrators shared with the residents, Schmettan added, “That in-person experience and the dialogue that we’re able to have with the community members as we’re walking

and talking — that personal connection — is important for them.”

To accommodate a broad range of schedules, the administration varied its touring schedule across different times and days of the week.

The next tour will take place Saturday, Oct. 29, at 9 a.m. The third and final one will be held Thursday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m.

The district advises if anyone plans to attend, please check in at the security vestibule in the main lobby of the high school/middle school.

To learn more about the proposed capital bond projects, visit the website: www.portjeffschools.org/bond/home.

Pending approval of the referendum, 14 elementary school bathrooms would be updated. Photo courtesy PJSD

Students

PJSD

Port Jeff historical society hosts 34th annual country auction at Mather museum

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Beneath gorgeous weather on the grounds of the historic Mather House Museum, The Historical Society of Greater Port Jefferson hosted its 34th annual outdoor country auction on Saturday, Oct. 15.

The country auction is a yearly local tradition that has endured for over three decades due to its unique format. Attendees are seated beneath a tent, holding their bid cards before a professional auctioneer.

Beth Pranzo is an officer of HSGPJ. She discussed the country auction’s role as bringing community members together while raising funds for the historical society.

“It’s a community event that we really, really like to promote,” she said. “It is a big fundraiser

for us as one of the two major fundraisers of the year at the historical society.”

Pranzo outlined the many programs and activities the proceeds will go toward throughout the year. “They go to educational programs. They go to exhibits. They go to our functions here — the many bills for all the buildings we support.”

Barbara Russell, the Brookhaven Town historian and member of HSGPJ, has participated in the country auction since its inception. She described the unique structure of the auction, its elegant venue, and how the program ties into the historical society’s mission.

“We are very lucky that we can hold it here on the Mather museum grounds,” she said. “We try to sell it as an old-fashioned country auction outside and under the tents.”

While the auction has added some

innovations and tweaks over the years, it resembles the original country auction held over three decades earlier.

“It’s basically the same format that we started with,” Russell said. “We just have it a little more computerized now. We have a bigger mailing list, more consignors, that kind of thing. But the items that sell change over the years.”

According to Russell, an item sold at auction can follow one of two tracks. The historical society collects 100% of the proceeds generated by a donated item’s sale at auction. For consigned items, the consignor receives a percentage of the profits and the historical society collects the difference.

Russell says she returns yearly because she believes in the historical society’s stated purpose. “It’s a great organization,”

the town historian said. “We started [the society] in the 1960s, and we maintain a museum right here in the village. We do take the artifacts that show Port Jefferson’s history. And the backbone of these organizations is the volunteers.”

Pranzo has participated in the country auction since 1995. For her, the event has evolved for the better, bringing a broader range of bidders into Port Jefferson.

“It’s just a very fun event because the whole community comes together,” she said. “People come back year after year from other places. They come from Connecticut on the ferry. They come from Nassau County.” She added, “It’s a country auction, so everything sells no matter the price. If there aren’t two bidders for something, then you get a really good deal.”

Bidders held up paper cards during the country auction event. Photos by Raymond Janis

Garage Sales

MOVINGSALE FRIDAY10/219:00-3:00PM, SATURDAY10/229:00-2:00PM

111SYCAMORECIRCLE STONYBROOK Furniture,collectables,antiques, dishes,etc.

Automobiles/Trucks

Vans/Rec Vehicles

***AAA***AUTOBUYERSHighestCashPaid,AllYears/Conditions,WEVISITYOU,Or Donate,TaxDeduct+Cash. DMVID#1303199.CallLUKE 516-VAN-CARS.516-297-2277

JUNKCARSBOUGHT! We’llBeatAnyPrice. Call631-500-1015. SEEDISPLAYADFORMOREINFORMATION.

TOPCASHPAIDFORALL TRUCKS,CARS,&VANS. Highestpricespaidforfixable vehicles.CallMark 631-258-7919. SEEDISPLAY ADFORMOREINFORMATION.

Auto Services

DRIVEOUTBREASTCANCER Donateacartoday,Thebenefits ofdonatingyourcarorboat,Fast FreePickup,24hrResponse, TaxDeduction,EasyToDo,Call 24/7855-905-4755.

Health, Fitness & Beauty

ATTENTIONVIAGRAUSERS: Generic100mgbluepillsor generic20mgyellowpills.Get 45plus5free$99+S/H.Call Today.877-707-5523

Musical Instruments

BLUESMANPIANOTUNING Certifiedpianotechnician, 631-681-9723, bluesmanpianotuning@gmail. com, www.bluesmanpianotuning.com

Novenas

PRAYERTOTHE

BLESSEDVIRGIN (NeverKnownToFail)

Oh,mostbeautifulflowerofMt. Carmel,fruitfulvine,splendorof heaven,blessedmotherofthe SonofGod,immaculatevirgin, assistmeinmynecessity.Oh starofthesea,helpme&show meherein,youaremymother.

OhHolyMary,MotherofGod, QueenofHeavenandEarth,I humblybeseechyoufromthe bottomofmyhearttosuccorme inthisnecessityTherearenone whocanwithstandyourpower.

Ohshowmehereinyouaremy mother.OhMaryconceived withoutsin,prayforuswho haverecoursetothee. (3times).OhHolyMary,Iplace thiscauseinyourhands. (3times).HolySpirit,youwho solveallproblems,lightallroads sothatIcanobtainmygoals. Yougavemethedivinegiftto forgiveandforgetallevilagainst me,andthatinallinstancesof mylife,youarewithme.Iwant inthisshortprayertothankyou forallthingsasyouconfirm onceagainthatIneverwantto beseparatedfromyouineternal glory.Thankyouforyourmercy towardmeandmine.M.S.The personmustsaythisprayer3 consecutivedays.Therequest willbegranted.Thisprayermust bepublishedafterthefavorhas beengranted.

Financial Services

AREYOUBEHIND$10kOR MOREONYOURTAXES?Stop wage&banklevies,liens& audits,unfiledtaxreturns,payrollissues,&resolvetaxdebt FAST.Call888-869-5361 (Hours:Mon-Fri7am-5pmPST)

Schools/Instruction/ Tutoring

PIANO-GUITAR-BASS Allages-levels-styles. Manylocalreferences. Recommendedbyallarea schools.TonyMann, 631-473-3443,631-332-6005

Finds Under 50

ANTIQUECORNERCABINET Pine,$48,631-473-1774.

FLUORESCENTSHOP FIXTURE4foot,2bulb Asking$20.00Call 631-744-3722

JELDWYNTHEROPANEEXTERIORWINDOWSNew,4 over1,251/2X.351/2perfect shedorbasement$30each 631-941-4425.

Housesitting Services

TRAVELING?

Needsomeonetocheckonyour home?

ContactTenderLovingPet Care,LLC.We’remorethanjust pets.Insured/Bonded. 631-675-1938

Miscellaneous

DIRECTVFOR$79.99/MOFOR 12MONTHSwithCHOICE Package.Watchyourfavorite livesports,news&entertainmentanywhere.First3months ofHBOMax,Cinemax,Showtime,StarzandEpixincluded! Directvis#1inCustomerSatisfaction(JDPower&Assoc.) Somerestrictionsapply.Call 1-888-534-6918

DISHTV$64.99For190Channels+$14.95HighSpeedInternet.FreeInstallation,SmartHD DVRIncluded,FreeVoiceRemote.Somerestrictionsapply. PromoExpires1/21/23. 1-888-609-9405

TURNTHEBOXESOFOLD COMICBOOKSsittinginyour garageintocashmoney!Call George(917)652-9128oremail gbrook@pipeline.com

WHEELSFORWISHESBENEFITINGMAKE-A-WISH ® NORTHEASTNEWYORK.Your CarDonationsMatterNOW MoreThanEver!FreeVehicle PickUpANYWHERE.We AcceptMostVehiclesRunning orNot.100%TaxDeductible. MinimalToNoHumanContact. Call:(877)798-9474.CarDonationFoundationd/b/aWheels ForWishes.www. wheelsforwishes.org.

EMPLOYMENT/CAREERS

WE ARE HIRING!! Join Our Team!

We currently have openings in our O. B. Davis Funeral Homes CENTEREACH, PORT JEFFERSON STATION, MILLER PLACE

*Funeral Service Assistants * Receptionists * Pallbearers * Drivers*

*Cleaning/Maintenance * Funeral Directors * Preneed Counselors*

Part-Time

Seeking Door Greeter

(approx. 10 15 hrs/week) For weekday/night and weekend shi�s

Please e mail resume to: wecare@bryan�h.com

Help Wanted

PUBLISHER’SEMPLOYMENT NOTICE:Allemploymentadvertisinginthisnewspaperissubjecttosection296 ofthehumanrightslawwhich makesitillegaltoadvertise any preference,limitationordiscriminationbasedonrace,color,creed,nationalorigin, disability,maritalstatus,sex, ageorarrestconvictionrecord oranintentiontomakeany suchpreference,limitationor discrimination.Title29,U.S. CodeChap630,excludesthe FederalGov’t.fromtheage discriminationprovisions.This newspaperwillnotknowingly acceptanyadvertisingforemploymentwhichisinviolation ofthelaw.Ourreadersareinformedthatemploymentofferingsadvertisedinthisnewspaperareavailableonanequal opportunitybasis.

Career Services

COMPUTER&ITTRAINING PROGRAM! TrainONLINEto gettheskillstobecomeaComputer&HelpDeskProfessional now!GrantsandScholarships availableforcertainprograms forqualifiedapplicants.CallCTI fordetails!844-947-0192(M-F 8am-6pmET).Computerwith internetisrequired.

Employment

UPTO$21.09NYC,$20.22L.I., $15.20 UPSTATENY!Ifyou needcarefromyourrelative, friend/neighborandyouhave Medicaid,theymaybeeligibleto starttakingcareofyouaspersonalassistantunderNYSMedicaidCDPAProgram.No Certificatesneeded. 347-713-3553

Flexible per-diem scheduling for both the day, evening & weekend www.sci.jobs to APPLY today!

These positions interact directly with client families during their time of need and are responsible for creating and maintaining a premier level of service. This is the opportunity to join our Dignity Memorial team which received the Best Places to Work Certification since 2017!

Help Wanted

O.B.DAVISFUNERALHOME

Wearehiring,Joinourteam. Wecurrentlyhaveopeningsin ourCentereach,PortJefferson Station,MillerPlacelocations, Flexibleper-diemschedulingfor boththeday,evening&weekendWWW.sci-jobstoapplytoday SEEOURDISPLAYAD FORMOREINFORMATION

P/TSALES/CUSTOMER SERVICE

Insidepositionsellingadvertisingforanaward-winning communitynewsmediagroup, Faxresumeto631-751-4165or emailresumeto Class@tbrnewspapers.com. Seeourdisplayadformore information.

TRAINONLINETODOMEDICAL BILLING!BecomeaMedicalOfficeProfessionalonlineat CTI!GetTrained,Certified& readytoworkinmonths!Call 855-543-6440.(M-F8am-6pm ET).Computerwithinternetis required.

UPTO$21.09NYC,$20.22L.I., $15.20 UPSTATENY!Ifyou needcarefromyourrelative, friend/neighborandyouhave Medicaid,theymaybeeligibleto starttakingcareofyouaspersonalassistantunderNYSMedicaidCDPAProgram.No Certificatesneeded. 347-713-3553

PJ Chamber of Commerce Administrative Aide

15 hours a week

Tuesday-Thursday • 11-4pm

Description job responsibilities: Assist Director of Operations in daily operations. Duties include: daily banking, member relations (updating member records, billing, new member intake); answering phones, social media updates; interacting with visitors to the Chamber. Qualifications: Computer literate; Word, Excel, Quickbook, Word Press, Can work UNSUPERVISED, Detail-oriented Understand the operations of a non-profit organization or similar operation. Good communication skills and multi-tasker.

Contact by email: info@portjeffchamber.com or call 631-473-1414

Customer Service

experience and excellent spelling skills

or customer service experience

have good people and

631-751-4165

Carpentry

LONGHILLCARPENTRY 45yearsexperience

Allphasesofhomeimprovement.Old&HistoricRestorations.Mastercard/VisaLic. #H22336/Ins.631-751-1764

longhill7511764@aol.com

Cesspool Services

MRSEWERMANCESSPOOL SERVICEAlltypesofcesspoolservicing,allworkguaranteed,familyownedandoperatedsince1985, 631-924-7502. LicensedandInsured.

Cleaning

Needsomeonetocheckyour home?OrHousecleaning? Professional.Reliable.Reasonable.MartinaTextOnly 631-939-9621

Clean-Ups

AREYOUALLOWINGYOUR PROPETYTOGROWNATURAL?Naturalwillsoonbecomeajungle, www.gotpoisonivy.com 631-286-4600. SEEOUR DISPLAYADFORMORE INFORMATION

LETSTEVEDOIT

Clean-ups,yards,basements, wholehouse,painting,tree work,localmovingand anythingelse.Totally overwhelmed? CallSteve@631-745-2598, leavemessage.

Driveway/Asphalt/ Concrete

PHOENIXSEALCOATThelow costlocalguy,residential,velvetopspecialists,additionalservices,hotpatches,striping, parkinglots,plowandsanding, forimmediatequotescallortext Doug631-331-9300oremail Doug@phoenixsealcoat.com

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION

Exterminating

REACTPESTCONTROLINC. Wasps,YellowJacketsNesting inyourhome!Protectyourhome beforethosepeskynestsare built. SEEDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION.

SCIENTIFICEXTERMINATING SERVICESlet’sallstaysafe, ecologicalprotection,ticks,ants, mosquitoes,termites, NaturalOrganicproducts631265-5252- SEEDISPLAYAD FORMOREINFORMATION.

Gutters/Leaders

ELIMINATEGUTTER CLEANINGFOREVER!LeafFilter,themostadvanceddebrisblockinggutterprotection. ScheduleaFREELeafFilterestimatetoday.15%offand0% financingforthosewhoqualify. PLUSSenior&MilitaryDiscounts.Call1-877-763-2379

Handyman Services

HANDYMANSERVICESAND PAINTING.Dependable,Honest,Professional.Nojobtoo small.CallSteve631-831-3089.

SEEDISPLAYADFORMORE INFORMATION.

Home Improvement

THEGENERACPWRcell,asolarplusbatterystoragesystem. SAVEmoney,reduceyourrelianceonthegrid,preparefor poweroutagesandpower yourhome.Fullinstallationservicesavailable.$0Down FinancingOption.Requesta FREE,noobligation,quotetoday.Call1-888-871-0194

Home Repairs/ Construction

LUXDEVELOPMENTGROUP

Landscape Materials

SCREENEDTOPSOIL

Mulch,compost,decorative anddrivewaystone,concrete pavers,sand/block/portland. Fertilizerandseed. JOS.M.TROFFA MATERIALSCORP. 631-928-4665,www.troffa.com

Masonry

CARLBONGIORNO LANDSCAPE/MASON CONTRACTOR

Power Washing

THREEVILLAGEPOWERWASHINGLLC

We’remorethanpowerwashing. Weoffershrinkwrappingforoutdoorfurnitureandboats,snow removalservicesavailable. Threevillagepowerwashing.com 631-678-7313.

Satellite TV

BESTSATELLITETVWITH2 YEARPRICEGUARANTEE, $59.99/mowith190

Fences

SMITHPOINTFENCE. DEERPROBLEM?WECAN HELP!Wood,PVC,ChainLink, Stockade.Freeestimates.

Nowoffering12monthinterest freefinancing. Commercial/Residential. 70JayneBlvd.,PJS.Lic.37690H/Ins.631-743-9797 www.smithpointfence.com.

Floor Services/Sales

FINESANDING& REFINISHING WoodFloorInstallations

CraigAliperti,WoodFloorsLLC. Allworkdonebyowner. 30yearsexperience. Lic.#47595-H/Insured. 631-875-5856

Furniture/Restoration/ Repairs

REFINISHING& RESTORATION

Antiquesrestored,repairing recane,reupholstery,touch-ups kitchen,frontdoors,40yrsexp, SAVE$$$,freeestimates. VincentAlfano631-707-1228

Home Improvement

ALLPHASESOF HOMEIMPROVEMENT

Fromattictoyourbasement, RCJConstruction www.rcjconstruction.com commercial/residential,lic/ins 631-580-4518.

BATH&SHOWERUPDATESin aslittleasONEDAY!Affordable prices-Nopaymentsfor18 months!Lifetimewarranty&professionalinstalls.Senior&MilitaryDiscountsavailable.Call: 866-393-3636

BLUSTARCONSTRUCTION

TheNorthShore’sMostTrusted RenovationExperts. 631-751-0751

Welovesmalljobstoo! SuffolkLic.#48714-H,Ins.

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION.

DON’TPAYFORCOVERED HOMEREPAIRSAGAIN! AmericanResidentialWarranty coversALLMAJORSYSTEMS ANDAPPLIANCES.30DAY RISKFREE/$100OFF POPULARPLANS. 833-398-0526

LAMPSFIXED,$65. InHomeService!!Handy Howard.Mycell646-996-7628

TIMES

Historicalrestorations,Extensions&Dormers,Cedarsiding andClapboardinstallation, basementrenovations,kitchen &Bathrooms,doors&windows, finishedcarpentry&moulding Call631-283-2266

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION

LUXDISASTER RESTORATION24/7 EmergencyCleanupandrestoration,Flood,Sewage,Storm damage,firedamage,basement waterproofingandfinishing,Call 631-287-4700

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION

Lawn & Landscaping

SETAUKETLANDSCAPE DESIGN

StoneDriveways/Walkways, Walls/Stairs/Patios/Masonry, Brickwork/RepairsLand Clearing/Drainage,Grading/ Excavating.Plantings/Mulch, RainGardens. SteveAntos,631-689-6082 setauketlandscape.com ServingThreeVillages

SWANCOVE LANDSCAPING

LawnMaintenance,Cleanups,Shrub/TreePruning, Removals.LandscapeDesign/ Installation,Ponds/Waterfalls, StoneWalls.Firewood.Free estimates.Lic/Ins.631-6898089

AllphasesMasonryWork:Stone Walls,Patios,Poolscapes.All phasesofLandscapingDesign. ThemeGardens.Residential& Commercial.Lic/Ins. 631-928-2110

Painting/Spackling/ Wallpaper

ALLPROPAINTING

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PowerWashing,Staining, WallpaperRemoval.Free estimates.Lic/Ins#19604HI 631-696-8150.Nick

BOB’SPAINTINGSERVICE

25YearsExperience. Interior/ExteriorPainting, Spackling,Staining,Wallpaper Removal,StainingandDeck RestorationPowerWashing. FreeEstimates.Lic/Ins.#17981. 631-744-8859

LAROTONDA PAINTING&DESIGN

Interior/exterior,sheetrock repairs,taping/spackling,wallpaperremoval,faux,decorative finishings.Freeestimates.Lic. #53278-H/Ins.RossLaRotonda 631-689-5998

WORTHPAINTING

“PAINTINGWITHPRIDE”

Interiors/exteriors.Staining& deckrestoration,powerwashing,wallpaperremoval, sheetrocktape/spackling, carpentry/trimwork.Leadpaint certified.References.Freeestimates.Lic./Ins.SINCE1989 RyanSouthworth. SEEDISPLAYADFORMOREINFO 631-331-5556

channelsand3monthsfreepremiummoviechannels,Freenext dayinstallation,Call 888-508-5313

Tree Work

ARBOR-VISTATREECARE

ACOMPLETETREECARE

SERVICEdevotedtothecare oftrees.Maintenancepruning, water-viewwork,sun-trimming, elevating,poolareas,storm thinning,largetreeremoval, stumpgrinding.Woodchips. Lic#18902HI.Freeestimates. 631-246-5377

RANDALLBROTHERS TREESERVICE

Planting,pruning,removals, stumpgrinding.FreeEstimates. Fullyinsured. LIC#50701-H.631-862-9291

SUNBURSTTREE EXPERTS

Since1974,ourhistoryofcustomersatisfactionissecondto none.Pruning/removals/ planting,planthealthcare. Insect/DiseaseManagement. ASKABOUTGYPSYMOTH ANDTICKSPRAYS

Bondedemployees.Lic/Ins. #8864HI631-744-1577

Huntington

JOS. M TROFFA MATERIALS

“We have had the privilege of advertising in The Village Times since the newspaper was first published in 1976! After all those years, 45 to be exact, we have had amazing results thanks to their dedication and professionalism. Minnie and Joann are wonderful and are sure to come up with valuable ideas for your individual advertising needs. Every week, Leah Dunaief & The Village Times staff provide an outstanding paper with factual and relevant information for the communities we all cherish. It is only natural to choose to advertise in their papers!

We love you Times Beacon Record!”

EXTRA! EXTRA!

SQUEAKY CLEAN

“I am a lifetime resident of Saint James who has been advertising in the Times Beacon Record Newspaper for the last 5 years. Through advertising with this local publication, I have been able to extend my exterior cleaning services to many local Long Island homes. It has been a pleasure working with such a professional advertising team, helping to keep our neighborhood houses looking Squeaky Clean!”

STRATHMORE EAST EQUITIES

“For decades, the Village Times has been our paper to attract people who would appreciate our lifestyles in Port Jefferson and local towns. Efficient, affordable and reliable is the trademark of the Village Times. Thank You!”

BOB’S PAINTING SERVICE

“Times Beacon Record is a great paper in every way, especially if you are a community oriented individual. Fun facts are here, as well as information on hiring business people that take pride in their workmanship. A great success story!”

SUFFOLK TRANSPORTATION

“It is

RCJ

pleasure working

Beacon News Media. Sheila always keeps me informed of deadlines and is aware of what I am looking for pertaining to advertisement locations. With our hectic schedule it is nice to know she is my safety net . I am happy to advertise in the publication. I know my message is getting to my audience.“

“We have been an advertiser for many years with the Times Beacon news for our home improvement company. The response of customers answering our advertisements has been very high steady. The representative we have been dealing with (Shelia) has been very helpful and is always there to advise me of the best advertising strategies. The cost is very affordable too.

I will continue to use this paper as we feel it’s been the best way along with the social media ads they run to reach our customers.”

REAL ESTATE

Real Estate Services

PUBLISHERS’NOTICE

AllrealestateadvertisedhereinissubjecttotheFederalFair HousingAct,whichmakesit illegaltoadvertise“anypreference,limitation,ordiscriminationbecauseofrace,color,religion,sex,handicap,familial status,ornationalorigin,orintentiontomakeanysuchpreference,limitation,ordiscrimination.”

Wewillnotknowinglyaccept anyadvertisingforrealestate whichisinviolationofthelaw. Allpersonsareherebyinformedthatalldwellings advertisedareavailableonanequal opportunitybasis.

Co-ops/Condos For Sale

LIVEINACOUNTRYCLUB

YES!BrettonWoodsoffersclubhouse,golfcourse,indoorand outdoorpools,tennis,restaurantsandactivities.1,2,3bedroomcondosfrom$290,000, Rentalsalsoavailable, StrathmoreEastEquities 631-698-3400.

Offices For Rent/Share

HERITAGESQUARE, SETAUKET

Beautifullyappointedofficein psychotherapysuiteavailable. Privatewaitingroom. 631-751-4152

GREENPORT:NorthFork commercial/retail.Primemain streetvillagelocation.Captain’s house.Originalfloorsandarchitecturaldetails.Excellentexposure.Owner,516-241-8135.

MILLERPLACE Mint1bedroom,L/R,kitchen, fullbath,offstreetparking,walk tobeach,utilitiesincluded,A/C, $1850,631-375-4323, 631-790-2395

SETAUKETHighVisibility,25A, cornerofficesuitewithlarge plateglasswindow,privatebath, ownthermostat,nicelydecorated,offstreetparking,Village TimesBuilding,Call 631-751-7744.

Drive with care or pay the price

The last few days marked National School Bus Safety and National Teen Driver Safety weeks. The lessons and tips organizations shared during these respective periods are vital to remember all year.

School bus laws seem easy for drivers to understand when they are behind the easy-to-spot, yellow vehicle. However, confusion seems to ensue when it is situated elsewhere on the road. If a driver is in the vicinity of a school bus with its red lights flashing and its “stop” sign extended, it means to stop and wait. This applies not only when a driver is behind the school bus but also when it’s on the opposite side of the road, whether it be on a two-way street, divided highway or multiple-lane roadway. The rules also apply in parking lots and school grounds.

In New York, respecting the law can mean saving anywhere from $250 to $1,000 in fines, avoiding jail time, having points on a license or its being revoked. Most important of all, stopping when seeing a school bus saves children’s lives.

When those children grow up and are ready to learn how to drive, there is a lot to take in, and safe driving behaviors should be of the utmost importance. Parents need to have meaningful conversations with their children about making sure seat belts are used and traffic laws are followed.

The repercussions of distracted driving, such as loud music, goofing around with friends and checking text messages, must also be brought up. Parents can lead by example by ensuring when their teens are behind the wheel, they avoid bad driving habits, especially when other young people are in the car.

One of the most important conversations parents can have with their children is that if using alcohol or drugs at a party, make sure to have a designated driver, sleep over or use Uber or Lyft. While the use of these apps has increased, providing rides when needed, some still insist on getting behind the wheel after drinking. With the holidays around the corner, incidents of people too impaired to drive will inevitably increase. A car can always be retrieved from where it was left the night before, but a life can never be replaced.

With the cooler weather here, there is another traffic safety reminder for people of all ages to heed. It’s the beginning of mating season for deer, also known as rutting season. The animals can run out on the road without warning. Usually when a driver sees one, there may be another or a few right behind the first, especially around dusk. When one is spotted, proceed with caution — and respect deer-crossing warning signs.

Dangers on our roadways seem to be increasing every day, but with a little bit of education and care, we can make our roads safer for all.

WRITE TO US … We welcome your letters. They should be no longer than 400 words and may be edited for length, libel, style and good taste. We do not publish anonymous letters. Please include a phone number and address for confirmation. Email letters to: editor1@tbrnewsmedia.com or mail them to TBR News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733

Letters to the Editor

Broader discussion necessary for Long Island’s energy policies

I may agree with your conclusion in the Oct. 13 editorial, “Say ‘no’ to nuclear energy, Long Island,” that without easy exit from Long Island nuclear power is out of the question. So what is the solution? Long Island already pays some of the highest electricity rates in the nation.

First, convert the decommissioned Shoreham Nuclear Power Plant to natural gas, wind and solar. We already have the transmission lines and rights of way in place.

Next, encourage fracking everywhere, in a responsible, environmentally friendly manner. Our neighbors in Pennsylvania encourage responsible fracking, mostly for American Natural Gas, and their economy is booming with excellent, highpaying jobs and phenomenal tax revenue to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Now, encourage on Long Island conservation and retrofitting to LED lights, newer appliances, focusing on air conditioning and refrigeration which are the No. 1 users of energy on the Island. In the water area, mandate steep fines for watering in the rain and require a rain sensor on all irrigation systems — a very cheap item. All toilets must be dual flush, one for “lighter,” one for “heavier.” These are in use throughout Europe and will save substantial fresh water.

Now encourage every homeowner to install solar and wind power. There are vertical wind turbines that make little noise and generate energy. Wind, plus solar, plus natural gas are Long Island’s future as we lessen our dependence on oil and gasoline.

Alan Cohn Nesconset

Additional national debt clocks are needed

Our national debt has now reached more than $31.1 trillion and is on a path to grow by trillions more for years to come. Today’s ever-moving tab averages some $93,000 per citizen or about $247,000 for every taxpayer

(source: National Debt Clock).

It is time to install national debt clocks with daily updates in both Congress and the White House. They can see how much they are adding to long-term debt every time they pass spending bills dependent upon borrowing to pay the tab.

Who is going to bail out Uncle Sam to pay for this? Government, the private sector and citizens must make difficult financial decisions on how to use existing resources. Americans prioritize their own family budgets. They make the hard choices in how existing household financial resources will be spent. The President and Congress should do likewise.

The world’s favored currency is our dollar. This could end if Washington will not control annual increases in spending and debt. If things continue the way they are, China may surpass us and the yuan becomes the world’s favored currency. Our reign as the No. 1 superpower will come to an end like all empires.

Larry Penner Great Neck

American leaders are suffocating the nation

We are living in a time of “information overload” and being bombarded with many lies, deceit, corruption and the orphan of “truth” has been attacked. This present administration is attacking every principle, tradition, institution and virtue that has made America historically exceptional. U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin [RNY1] is being “borked” … lies, lies, lies from this radical Democratic Party that effectively implements “Rules for Radicals” (Saul Alinsky) and are “master distractors.”

Here are questions we all need to ponder:

•Why is this administration inviting “illegal” immigration resulting in a government-made humanitarian crisis? (Mass invasion of a country is an “act of war” and a government failing to protect a country is an “act of treason.”)

•Why is there a hiring of 87,000 IRS

agents to go after the American citizen and not hiring of border agents to protect the American citizen?

•Why are we allowing the castration and mutilation of our children?

•Why are we letting men who say they are women compete in women’s sports and then give them a medal when they win?

•Why are we tolerating a dystopian delusional world? (Finally, Jamie Dimon, chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase stood up stating, “You are destroying the country” when in Congress Rep. Rashib Tlaib [D-MI] challenged Dimon over ceasing funding to fossil fuels.)

•Why are cars called “gas guzzlers” and electric cars not called “electric guzzlers”? Electricity has to be created. What creates it? Coal, oil, nuclear power. And what would they do to the batteries that weigh 1,000 pounds and are very toxic to the environment after 10 years?

•Why are we allowing President Joe Biden [D] to deplete our oil reserves that are supposed to be used for the military and emergency crisis that President Donald Trump [R] found “empty” and filled them when cost was low. Why has Biden given our reserves to China? (Be prepared for the fictitious gas prices to go sky high after the election.)

•Why was the president of the USA begging an enemy — Saudi Arabia — for “dirty” oil, when God has blessed our nation with plentiful resources. (Biden had placed a “lockdown” and has created an act of war on our coal and oil industry.)

•Why are all the government agencies arming their untrained staff members with ammunition, guns, etc. Why does social security need weaponry? (Remember, the first thing that Hitler did to control the people was to take away the guns. By the way, Hitler was a “left-wing socialist,” according to “Mein Kampf.”)

•Why is this administration spending, spending, spending, continually weakening the dollar? We do not hear mention of “posterity” anymore.

•Why is this administration doing everything opposite to prevent a recession? (JFK quote: “Now is the time.”)

•Why are parents being labeled and targeted as terrorists for speaking out at school board meetings?

America is not being conquered by a foreign enemy — yet it seems it is being strangled to death by its own leaders. This election has nothing to do with whether you are a Democrat, Republican, Libertarian or Independent but everything to do with “American Marxism.“ We need to vote out those politicians that are pushing for “anti-American” policies in our local, state and federal government. God help America.

Lisa Pius Old Field

File photo by Erika Karp

COVID woes reduced the level of climate change concerns, SBU study says

Mygrandmother was a worrier. Even she, however, would have had a hard time worrying about other major challenges, problems and threats during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. That, it turns out, was also true for the world during COVID when it came to discussions about the threat from climate change.

developed, environmental and climate concerns decline amid worries about other major threats.

Smirnov found that the total number of tweets that mention climate change dropped to 5.6 million in 2020 and 5.3 million in 2021, from 8 million in 2019. This, Smirnov points out, occurred despite an increase in Twitter users, more climate disasters and more climate news in 2021.

While Smirnov understood the need to focus on the pandemic, he suggested a lack of concern about climate change could disrupt efforts to protect the planet

“This has profound implications,” Smirnov said. “Without a focus on climate change, without an emphasis on its importance, there is less urgency and less pressure on politicians to do something about it.”

course of days, such an approach provides “no substantial improvement in your health” longer term, he said.

So, what about now, as concerns about the pandemic abate, people have stopped wearing masks and schools and stadiums are full?

“The psychological foundation tell us that people may only really respond to one threat at a time,” Smirnov said in an interview. The anxiety and the reaction to that threat may be limited because it requires major energy.

“Maybe, for biological reasons, [people] put all their energy into responding to the most immediate threat,” Smirnov added.

Even in better times, climate change efforts are “fragile,” he said, which adds to the uncertainty about the ability to address the challenge adequately.

Smirnov plans to continue to collect Twitter data for the remainder of this year, to see whether a return to normalcy brings the focus back to the threat from climate change.

As for his own experience, Smirnov recognized that climate change took a back burner amid the worst of the pandemic.

BY DANIEL DUNAIEF

In a recent study published in the prestigious journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Oleg Smirnov, associate professor in the Department of Political Science at Stony Brook University, examined the level of concern on Twitter about climate change during 2020 and 2021 and compared those numbers to 2019, the last year before COVID.

According to the pool of finite worry, which Princeton professor of Psychology Elke Weber

By tracking daily tweets and various measures of COVID cases, Smirnov found on a finer scale as well that discussions of climate change diminished amid higher infections and mortality.

For every thousand new COVID-19 cases in the United States, climate change tweets decreased by about 40.5 tweets per day. Every thousand new deaths resulted in 3,308 fewer climate tweets.

Indeed, even the sentiment analysis, in which Smirnov reviewed the emotional content of words used to describe climate change and the threat to the planet and humanity, became less negative during the worst of the pandemic.

When asked about the possibility that climate change concerns might have declined during COVID in part because the carbon footprint declined amid travel restrictions and slowdowns in industrial production, Smirnov likened such an approach to short-term fasting or extreme dieting.

While spending a few days on these extreme diets can reduce a person’s weight over the

“My attention certainly was hijacked by COVID-19, despite the fact that climate change is part of my work,” Smirnov said. In April of 2020, Smirnov recalled worrying about where his family would find food instead of thinking about greenhouse gases and rising sea levels.

In the present, Smirnov remains concerned about the kind of tipping points and climate inertia that threatens the future.

Ever the worrier, my grandmother might be relieved enough by the less virulent form of the virus and the availability of vaccines and treatment to return to worrying about the threat climate change poses.

When you have the urge to get away, here’s a possible destination

Itwas time to get away, even for a day, and when better than on foliage weekend! So Saturday, we took the ferry to Connecticut and started up Route 8 to get to the Berkshires and the seasonal colors.

and

BY LEAH S. DUNAIEF

Were we too late in the fall? Shortly after we left Bridgeport, our choice of time and place were confirmed. It was a perfect autumn day, sunny, bright, soft breeze, balmy even, and the colors burst upon us, the reds, oranges, yellows mixed with a still significant amount of green as we began to drive through the hills. No, we were not too late.

We had been concerned, too, about the effects of the summer’s drought on the leaves.

We needn’t have worried. Perhaps, it wasn’t the most dramatic foliage we had ever witnessed, some trees were already bare, but it was brilliant enough to excite our eyes. We whooped around every bend in the road that presented us with a new palette of hills and color.

The timing of foliage season has altered somewhat over the past few years. Climate change has impacted peak leaf peeping by extending the warmer weather that keeps trees green. Hence the optimal viewing time has also been delayed. This year, according to records, seems like it will clock in as the fifth warmest. So it turned out that our urge for an outing was right on.

Where to go?

While it was possible just to drive slowly, drinking in the scenery, it was also fun to have a destination in mind. We left the highway, or rather it left us as it ended in Winsted, incidentally, my dad’s birthplace, and we started on a local road that eventually led us to Southfield, the home of a long-ago college

BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA

roommate with whom we had lost contact. She, and her family, as we discovered, no longer lived there, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying the tiny town. Yes, it was one of those “blink and you will miss it” villages, but we didn’t blink. We parked and had lunch at The Store, a delightful coffee, pastry and sandwich shop with tables inside as well as out front. Happily installed in one corner of the patio with a turkey and avocado sandwich and a generous slice of chocolate-banana bread, to be washed down with ambrosial coffee, we chatted up the couple at the adjoining table, who were smiling at us.

In fact, it was the kind of day that prompted everyone to smile. There we were, amid glorious leafage, basking in ideal temperature and bright sunlight in the peaceful countryside. They told us their names, Paul and Julia, and that they were from Westchester County and celebrating their anniversary. For the first time, they were at leisure to do that because their two children, a son and a daughter, were at college. She was a psychologist, he worked in finance,

and they had left their responsibilities behind to stay at the historic inn in the next village for the weekend.

They were fun to talk to, as was every other person who went by, walking their dogs. We asked each one if they knew the roommate’s family, but just about each one apologized and explained that they had only moved there 20 years ago. What a coincidence, we thought. They had all come more or less at the same time. It wasn’t until the next day that we realized what had happened those two decades ago: 9/11 happened. If one wanted to escape from a city to a safe and bucolic place, here was one such location. Perhaps that was what brought them there.

We stayed in the area, driving around, enjoying the typical New England white clapboard church with its distinctive steeple, the inn and the village common along with glorious Nature. Then, as night fell, we had dinner at the inn before returning home.

The next day, I felt as if I had been aired out.

AwardWinning Newspapers

Year After Year

D. None of the above